Owners reveal identity and release statment

The owner of the mystery group Thames Sports Investments has been unveiled as Russian tycoon Anton Zingarevich. TSI are the group that are on the verge of the takeover of Reading Football Club.

Anton Zingarevich, 29, and son of Russian billionaire Boris Zingarevich, will be previously known for his attempt to buy Everton a few years ago. However, the £20m takeover failed and has now moved to interests to Reading.

The following quotes are taken from the official RFC website: ‘The transaction is due to complete in March 2012, but the Heads of Agreement, as agreed with Sir John Madejski, includes providing Reading Football Club with some limited funding now to enable Brian McDermott and Nick Hammond to strengthen the playing squad during this January transfer window. TSI have met with Brian, Nick and the club to begin this process.’

‘TSI is also delighted that Sir John Madejski has agreed to remain Chairman of Reading Football Club until at least 2014, and to become Life President if and when he decides to step down. TSI wishes to emphasise that Reading Football Club’s management team will remain unchanged, as will the fundamental policies of the club, including prudent fiscal management.’

‘TSI’s financial support aims to allow the club to retain its best players and acquire additional players as the football management team see fit. It will also enable the club to expand and further improve its successful Academy and scouting operations.’

Zingarevich was educated at Bearwood College in Reading, before moving onto university in New York. The deal is set to be completed in March, buying a 51% stake in the club. It is crucial to reiterate that Sir John Madejski will remain chairman for the foreseeable future.